BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The Augustana indoor track & field squads have been picked second in this year's NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll, the league announced Wednesday. The Viking women picked up a first-place vote and 151 points to be tabbed second while the men totaled 89 points and a first-place vote. The Vikings begin their indoor season Friday at the SDSU Holiday Invitational & Multi in Brookings, South Dakota. 

"Our women's team has a ton of talent and a number of NCAA National qualifiers, which should help our team succeed at bigger meets," said Tracy Hellman. Our balance is also something that we are excited about. It should be a fun and exciting year." 

Nyanas Kur was tapped as a preseason track athlete to watch after having a strong Sophomore season. The Sioux Falls, South Dakota native dominates on the track as she was a NCAA National Qualifier, made NSIC 200m All-Conference and placed first in the 60m (7.64s) at the Mount Marty Opener. 

"Nyanas has steadily improved each season and she has the experience and mindset to do some great things this track season. Her ability to run a variety of events is a big plus to her success."

Kylee Sallee was named as the preseason field athlete to watch for the second time in her collegiate career after being named CSC Academic All-District, NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence and NSIC Heptathlon All-Conference.

"Kylee has put in a ton of work to improve all her events, and she is at a great place mentally and physically. She has a great toolbox of talents and the multi-event is a perfect event for her."

Andrew Martens was named the preseason track athlete to watch after being named NSIC All-Academic, placing ninth at the NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships in the 60m hurdles with a time of 8.032, 60m Hurdles National Qualifier and NSIC 60m Hurdles Champion

"Andrew has improved every year and enters this season healthy and motivated to do some big things. He possessed the tools to be successful and he is coming off a tremendous season. I am excited to see him accomplish some great things this year."

Jonathan Sikel was named preseason track athlete to watch for the second season in a row after a strong sophomore season. Sikel is looking forward to having a breakout season in his junior year. 

"Jonathan has improved each season and he is ready for a breakout season this year. He has a big upside and has put in the work to be successful."

Augustana kicks off its indoor season on Friday in the SDSU Holiday Invitational & Multi in Brookings, South Dakota. This marks the first of six meets before the Vikings take part in the NSIC championships in late February. Five of Augustana's six meets will take place in Brookings, South Dakota with a lone two day trip to Lincoln, Nebraska in early February.